Unit 1

Ans 1. In the United States, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) defines sustainable construction
as "the practice of creating structures and using processes that are environmentally responsible and
resource-efficient throughout a building's life-cycle from siting to design, construction, operation,
maintenance, renovation and deconstruction." The Netherlands defines sustainable construction as "a
way of building which aims at reducing (negative) health and environmental impacts caused by the
construction process or by buildings or by the built-up environment." More comprehensively,
sustainability can be considered from three dimension of planet, people and profit across the entire
construction supply chain. Key concepts include the protection of the natural environment, choice of
non-toxic materials, reduction and reuse of resources, waste minimization, and the use of life-cycle cost
analysis.

What is sustainable construction?

Sustainable construction means using renewable and recyclable materials when building new structures,
as well as reducing energy consumption and waste. The primary goal of sustainable construction is to
reduce the industry’s impact on the environment.

Sustainable construction doesn’t end when the building is complete; the building itself should have a
reduced impact on the environment over its lifespan. This means that the building design should
incorporate elements that have an ongoing positive influence on the building’s environmental impact.
These can include proper insulation to prevent heat loss, solar panels to reduce energy consumption,
and building materials with a long lifespan.

Why is sustainable construction important?

From energy usage to emissions, the construction industry has a huge impact on the environment.

Aside from the potential for building over wild habitats, the construction industry energy use is high. The
heavy machinery used in construction still leans heavily on fossil fuels, and even inefficient electricity
use can result in the unnecessary burning of fossil fuels further down the energy supply line. In fact, the
construction industry accounts for an incredible 36% of worldwide energy usage, and 40% of CO2
emissions.
The fabrication and shipping of materials can have a great impact on carbon emissions. Mining for raw
materials can result in the pollution of local water tables. The manufacture of concrete has resulted in
over 2.8bn tonnes of CO2, a figure which is only going to keep increasing as 4bn tonnes of concrete is
poured every year.

Construction can also result in hazardous waste, and the improper disposal of such waste can result in
pollution that affects not just the environment, but also the health of people living in that area.

How to make construction sustainable

There are a number of ways to make construction projects more sustainable.

Renewable energy

There have been great strides made towards bringing renewable energy to construction sites. A popular
solution is a modular battery system that can be deployed on-site and recharges via included solar
panels. These batteries can power electric tools and vehicles, as well as as security equipment. Some of
these systems can offset one tonne of CO2 per week and 400 litres of diesel, resulting in a significant
impact when they are used on large construction projects.

Building with sustainable materials

wood; properly managed forests don’t just supply building materials, but also provide a habitat for
wildlife

sustainable concrete; alternatives with plastic and recyclables can reduce the carbon dioxide production
by almost 50%

alternative brick materials; mud, wool, even cigarette butts can be used to create bricks that just as
strong without a need for the kiln fires that result in harmful emissions

Plastic

The fact that plastic doesn’t degrade means that its greatest sin against the environment becomes its
greatest strength when it’s used in construction. One of the key goals of sustainable construction is to
erect buildings with a longer lifespan, and the fact that plastic just won’t degrade means that it won’t
need as much maintenance or replacement as a material that does degrade.
As long as plastic is used responsibly, it has a vital part to play in sustainable construction.

The challenges of sustainable construction

Adopting sustainable construction methods is not an overnight process; there are challenges to face, the
greatest of which is cost. There will always be pressure on construction organisations to reduce costs
where possible, but there are still concerns that sustainable construction methods will cost an
organisation more.

The World Green Building Trends 2018 Smart Market Report reveals that almost 40% of UK firms
reported that affordability was the greatest challenge presented by adopting sustainable construction
practices. Almost 50% of firms stated that they expected green buildings to incur higher first costs.

Couple that with 34% of firms reporting that they face client demand for greener buildings, and you can
see that many construction firms fear that they will be caught in the middle of demand and high costs.

The benefits of sustainable construction

Naturally, adopting sustainable construction methods will reduce your organisation’s impact on the
environment. But there are more tangible benefits too which will help you demonstrate the value of
sustainable construction beyond environmental concerns.

A building worth more

We’ve already touched upon the potentially higher upfront costs involved in sustainable construction,
but the results can pay dividends. Data shows that so-called green buildings command a 7% increase in
value compared with traditional buildings.

Construction firms can cite this data in tenders and help offset any additional costs that might result
from a sustainable construction. And building owners can look forward to a more valuable addition to
their property portfolios, as well as the kudos that comes with operating a green building.
Ans 2a. Green building, also known as sustainable building denotes that the structure and the
application of process are environmentally efficient from planning to designing, and from design to
implementation to the end of demolition.

There are certain requirements that will be required to build a green building, they are:

1. Life Cycle Assessment: It helps in having a narrow outlook social, environmental and economic
concerns.

2. Siting and structure design efficiency: In designing environmental efficient buildings, the objective to
minimize the total impact associated with the life-cycle stages of the project.

3. Energy Efficiency.

4. Water Efficiency.

5. Material Efficiency.

6. Waste Reduction.

7. Reduce impact onto electricity network.

What are the requirements to build a green building?

Green building, also known as sustainable building denotes that the structure and the application of
process are environmentally efficient from planning to designing, and from design to implementation to
the end of demolition.

There are certain requirements that will be required to build a green building, they are:

1. Life Cycle Assessment: It helps in having a narrow outlook social, environmental and economic
concerns.

2. Siting and structure design efficiency: In designing environmental efficient buildings, the objective to
minimize the total impact associated with the life-cycle stages of the project.

3. Energy Efficiency.

4. Water Efficiency.

5. Material Efficiency.
6. Waste Reduction.

7. Reduce impact onto electricity network.

What are the parameters for considering a green building?

What is green buildings technology?

Why should building be constructed on green field sites?

What are green building specifications?

What are the basic fundamental requirements of a building?

Asked to answer,

Green buildings or LEED certified buildings help Architects, contractors, engineers and owners to stay
productive and profitable in the long run, there are challenges with these LEED certified buildings as
well.

Green building certification program recognizes best-in-class building strategies and practices. LEED
boosts their public image and hence; Go green has taken the center stage for major construction
projects. As per USGBC, LEED offers several other benefits such as:

LEED certified buildings easily qualify for zoning allowances and tax rebates.

With faster lease up rates, LEED certified buildings retain higher property values, a profitable venture for
commercial construction companies

LEED certified residential buildings sell faster and at higher prices due to sustainability and energy
efficiency features making it profitable for residential construction companies.

Up to 5% of reduced insurance premium is one of the benefits that building construction companies can
endow home owners with.

Upon building a green home, Individual home builders or home owners are eligible for up to $2000 tax
credit.

Looking at the pace with which LEED is evolving and increasingly becoming a choice to everyone, we
cannot deny the fact that LEED certified buildings are recession proof.
You can read complete article at - http://www.energycentral.com/c/ee/leed-certified-architects-
construction-companies-buildings-headed-bright-future

Requirements to build a green building

Access to Public Transportation

Maximize Open space, Restore Native Vegetation, Retain Existing Vegetation

Infiltration of Rainwater/ Storm water within the project site implementing LID Strategies.

Microclimate management around the project site

Roof Garden, Green pavers - Increasing permeable pavers

Night -Light Pollution Reduction

Introduction of fresh, clean air in all occupied spaces

Use of Water Aerators to reduce & save on potable water

Use of alternative energy systems, e.g., solar panels, wind power

Use of alternative water systems, e.g., rainwater collection, harvested food and gray water recycling
systems

- Use of sustainable and durable materials, e.g., bamboo, recycled rubber, recycled glass, cork, etc.

- - Use of sustainable design, e.g., natural lighting and passive cooling. This is achieved through the use
of green architecture.

The green architecture, which is sometimes called sustainable architecture, provides fresh air and
natural lights through the use of nature-inspired features in the design. These features include natural
materials, sun-shading techniques, natural ventilation, passive cooling, natural lighting, and water
features.

1. Every buiding is uniquely designed to optimise sun shating, natural light, Heat absorbing materials,
etc. Use insulating, heating and cooling sytems, look for ENERGY efficient products install in the building.
Find locally available building materials and try to use them.

2.Design the building windows' to orient towards the sun and colour the walls in light shade to have
great interior reflection of daylight in the rooms.
3. Select local materials tosave transportation, reuse existing material, avoid toxic materials and select
the most suitable materials.

4. Evaluate life cycle impact of theproduct/building on resources. Use rapidly renewable resources such
as bamboo or cetified wood. Also evaluate the products for their ability to be recycled after their life
span.

5. Design ventilators in area that intake pollution free air along with humidity control.

6. Use highly efficient lighting sources with known energy standard ratings. Do not over -illuminate the
outdoors instead use low cut-off exterior lightning sources which direct light downward and not upward
and outward.

7.Design an easy maintainance product. Suggest Environment friendly cleaning agents that do not
release VOCs or any other toxic agents.

8. Study wate managment and COST V/S PAYOFF.

9. SAVE EARTH

P.S.- Though solar panel reduce energy consumption but they can not make zero energy building unless
used in large numbers. When talking about green building we should consider everything from
excavation to interior decoration. We try to save energy on every step for ex transport. Vairious
organizations worldwide consult and certify green constructions, others help you change your existing
infrastructure to save energy.

Ans 2b. What is the difference between a conventional building and a green building? We’ll see. But
before we get into this, let’s see what green buildings are. What are green buildings? Green buildings
are buildings that are developed to reduce the wide effect of the built environment on human well-
being and the natural environment. It is designed such that its construction gets rid of all damaging
effects and creates a positive impact on the climate and surroundings.

Green buildings use water, energy and other resources quite efficiently, reducing waste, pollution and
environmental degradation. They create positive impacts not only on the environment but also inside
the building. Green buildings increase the interior air quality.
The concept of green buildings was introduced in the late 1990’s, by a settlement in Lubeck Germany.
Conventional buildings are buildings that are built using the standard methods of construction. It
involves traditional construction materials and stays within a particular set of parameters. They are
based upon simple plans and measurements including regular flooring plans. They are called
conventional buildings because the materials used are what people tend to use most of the time and
have been this way for many years.

Conventional building construction does not have any non-energy saving techniques, can be energy
efficient only if improvements are made to it, whereas, green building constructions are built with
energy saving techniques, increases the energy efficiency of the buildings using star appliances and also
helps improve the design of the building.

In conventional buildings, lighting, air conditioning and heating systems, if made effective, can turn that
building into a green building. Green buildings have effective lighting, air conditioning and heating.
Conventional buildings do not have a water management system, whereas green buildings have water
conservation and a competent water management system. Conventional buildings have windows and
doors placed according to the likes of the people, whereas in green buildings, windows and doors are re-
oriented such that the house receives abundant natural light. Another difference between a
conventional building and a green building is that, a green building uses an efficient insulating building
material to reduce heat convention as well as radiation.

According to a study, it has come to notice that green buildings reduce the energy used, carbon
emissions, water usage and solid waste produced, that the conventional buildings are responsible for.
This shows that switching to green buildings is very essential for the environment and for the health and
safety of the people.

Ans U2, 8 & 10. What’s the difference between green and sustainable building?

Here’s how we view the two terms specifically as they relate to buildings:

Sustainability is a broad concept that refers to a building’s overall ability to provide a comfortable,
healthy, and productive environment over the long term without negatively impacting the environment.
Sustainable buildings aren’t just about the environment, but take into account all three pillars of
sustainability: planet, people, and profit. How can a building be built and used with consideration for the
future of our people, the planet, and the business itself? (To learn more about how sustainability can be
profitable for a business overall, read this article.)

To truly be a sustainable building, this ideology must be “baked” in at every stage of a building’s life
cycle. For example:

Planning—Are you building on previously undisturbed land?

Design—Sustainable architecture considers, for example, window placement for optimal natural
ventilation.

Construction—Are the materials used safe for the environment and occupants? Does the construction
process conserve natural resources?

Operation and maintenance—Is energy and water being used efficiently? Are cleaning products safe for
occupants?

Demolition—Will solid waste and disposed materials be handled in an environmentally safe manner?

Columbus, New Mexico, Port Of Entry: An Example Of Sustainable Design

Green, on the other hand, is a concept that is solely focused on the environment, and refers to the
individual practices and processes that make up the incremental steps toward environmental
sustainability. For example, “green initiatives” such as switching to renewable energy sources or
reducing your carbon footprint might be implemented in an effort to become more sustainable. LEED
and WELL certifications are both green building standards that outline steps buildings can take to
become more environmentally friendly.

A green building is one which only caters to the environment aspect of the building.

On the other hand, a sustainable building caters to environmental, economical and social aspects. It
basically focuses only on the essential needs which are necessary so as to “sustain”.

Examples can explain better.

GREEN BUILDING

RAJIV GANDHI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT, HYDERABAD

• The first airport in Asia, awarded the LEED Silver rating certification by US Green Building Council.

• It makes use of various strategies so as to save energy consumption and thereby fulfils the LEED
requirements. Some are: implementation of Building Automation System, introduction of energy
efficient LED, interiors daylit by roof and wall fenestration, treatment of waste water through STP,
integrated online continuous environmental monitoring station, etc.

SUSTAINABLE BUILDING

EDUCATIONAL BUILDING IN MOZAMBIQUE

• A group of Architecture students paid a visit in this area for a study tour and felt a severe need for a
school for the underprivileged kids around. They designed the school and even constructed it on their
own with the help of the locals.

• This building doesn’t use any hi-fi technology or equipment but incorporates simple passive design
strategies and local materials and techniques. The building serves a social purpose in minimal
expenditure to maintain its economical feasibility.

On comparing the above two buildings, we find out that the green building reduces the energy
consumption to a significant extent whereas the sustainable building doesn’t even use any.

In addition, the sustainable building is economically sustainable while the green building uses very
advanced technology which is in fact very costly to buy, install, run and maintain.

Also the school building serves a social purpose and is built by the society for the society.
Now having understood the difference, it is quite evident that sustainable architecture is not that
commonly opted for whereas green building design is talk of the town. The former provides with less
chances of earning profit as compared to the latter.

But I personally feel that Sustainability is the need of the hour not just in terms of architecture, but as a
way of living. In this time of acute shortage of resources and increased climatic changes, we all need to
identify and cater to our “needs” rather than “wants”.

Ans 3b. Advantages of Green Buildings

Green buildings are energy-efficient

Higher fraction of eco-friendly materials

Water-efficient devices

Reduction in waste

More efficient recycling

Less air pollution

Reduction in greenhouse gas emissions

Protection of our natural resources

Emphasis on renewable energies

Concept takes the whole life cycle of a building into account

Daylighting is utilized as best as possible

Use of renewable plant materials

Use of recycled metals and other construction materials

Improvements in indoor air quality

Use of compost bins

Rainwater collection

Overall health improvements

Higher market value

Tax advantages and subsidies

Smart long-term investment

Compliance with stricter laws and regulations

Clean conscience

Green buildings are energy-efficient

One important advantage of green buildings is that they can be considered to be quite energy-efficient.

While old conventional buildings are usually not insulated at all and lose plenty of heat, eco-friendly
buildings can keep plenty of heat inside since they are insulated properly.

This means that in an energy-efficient building, you have to heat less since the heat is kept inside much
more efficiently.

In turn, also your spending on heating will be significantly lower compared to living in an old
conventional building.

Higher fraction of eco-friendly materials

In green construction processes, the fraction of eco-friendly materials is often also much higher
compared to regular building.

For instance, the materials for green buildings are chosen in line with the sustainability and resource-
conservation goal.

This means that a significant fraction of those materials will be recycled and also the woods that are
used are generally fast-growing ones like bamboo.

Therefore, green construction is pretty focused on making building practices as eco-friendly as possible.

Water-efficient devices
Another upside of green buildings is that water-efficient devices are installed whenever possible.

For instance, conventional toilets often use large amounts of water for every flush.

However, a big fraction of this water can be saved by installing water-conserving toilets instead of
conventional ones.

This is not only true for toilets, but also for many other devices like washing machines, dishwashers and
so on.

Thus, by using water-efficient devices, we can greatly reduce our water demand, which will become
pretty important in the future since water will become a quite scarce resource due to global warming.

Reduction in waste

Green construction also has the goal to minimize waste.

For instance, this could mean that materials that are left from construction processes are not disposed
into landfills, but that those materials are rather reused for other purposes instead.

By reusing those materials, we could greatly reduce the waste from construction practices, which would
greatly improve our overall ecological footprint.

More efficient recycling

In order to reduce our waste production even further, it is also crucial to improve recycling processes in
the construction sector.

For instance, this could mean that a higher fraction of materials are reused in case a house will be
demolished.
By recycling and reusing a higher fraction of those materials, waste production can be reduced and our
natural resources can be used much more efficiently.

Less air pollution

Energy-efficient buildings also imply far less air pollution.

For the production of energy, large amounts of fossil fuels are used, which in turn implies significant
emissions.

Thus, if the energy demand can be reduced through green building techniques, also the amount of fossil
fuels that have to be used on a global scale can be reduced significantly.

Thus, green construction can contribute to better air quality and to less particle pollution.

Reduction in greenhouse gas emissions

A reduction in the use of fossil fuels through green construction also implies a reduction in greenhouse
gas emissions.

In turn, global warming can be slowed down to a certain extent and we as humanity can mitigate the
adverse environmental effects that are associated with climate change.

Protection of our natural resources

We as humanity still use large amounts of fossil resources that will become depleted sooner or later.

Thus, in order to improve sustainability, we should try to save natural resources whenever possible.
In the construction sector, large amounts of natural resources can be saved by green construction
processes since a higher fraction of materials can be recycled and a higher fraction of eco-friendly
materials are used compared to conventional building practices.

Emphasis on renewable energies

Another benefit of green building is that this kind of construction relies on green energies instead of
conventional fossil fuels.

For instance, for green buildings, solar panels are often used to generate energy so that the building will
not need to use energy that is produced with the help of fossil fuels.

By using renewable alternative energy sources, green construction makes a big contribution to speed up
the energy transition process from fossil fuels to green energy sources, which is crucial to mitigate
various environmental problems, including global warming and all sorts of pollution.

Concept takes the whole life cycle of a building into account

Green building also takes into account the whole lifecycle of a building when it comes to the evaluation
of whether certain measures and features are eco-friendly or not.

For instance, while some materials may be considered to be eco-friendly for the construction process,
they might be rather harmful when it comes to the demolition of the building.

Thus, by taking all phases of the lifecycle into account, architects that operate in the green building
sector could vastly improve the overall ecological footprint of a building.

Daylighting is utilized as best as possible

Since green buildings often rely on renewable energy sources like solar power, they are already much
eco-friendlier compared to conventional buildings in terms of energy.
However, green buildings can save even more energy by using daylight as a major lighting source.

This often implies the use of large windows in order to brighten up a room.

By doing so, less energy has to be produced since the daylight may be sufficient during the day without
using any additional lights.

Use of renewable plant materials

For green construction, it is also crucial to use renewable plant materials as often as possible.

For instance, when it comes to the material that should be used for flooring, bamboo or other
sustainable woods are used in green construction in order to ensure to meet the sustainability goal.

Use of recycled metals and other construction materials

Compared to conventional building, a much higher fraction of recycled materials is used for green
construction.

For example, a significant fraction of metals or stones that are used in green building had been recycled
before.

By using those recycled materials, green construction can use as few resources as possible and can
significantly improve the efficiency regarding the use of our natural resources.

Improvements in indoor air quality

Since green construction aims to use eco-friendly materials, also the indoor air quality is often much
better compared to conventional building styles.
Moreover, a bigger emphasis will be put on the air circulation, which will further improve the overall
indoor air quality in homes that have been constructed in a green manner.

Use of compost bins

Green construction often also involves the use of compost bins.

The use of those bins is quite helpful to further improve the ecological footprint of residents since
organic waste can be decomposed through composting instead of disposing it into landfills.

Thus, overall waste production can be further reduced through the use of composting related to green
buildings.

Rainwater collection

Green buildings often also have facilities installed which can collect and store the rainwater.

This water can be used for gardening purposes or for flushing our toilets.

Thus, by collecting rainwater, we will have to use less tap water and large amounts of tap water can be
preserved over time.

Although this might seem like a rather minor advantage, water will become quite a scarce resource in
the future due to global warming and it definitely makes sense to save as much water as possible
whenever we can.

Overall health improvements

Since the indoor air quality will be improved, also the risk for pulmonary diseases might decrease by
living in green buildings.
Moreover, since plenty of natural and sustainable materials are used for decoration and flooring, this
will lead to further health benefits since our body will often react much more positive to natural
materials compared to synthetic ones.

Higher market value

Green buildings will likely become even more popular in the future since people become more aware of
our environmental problems and that it is time for a change if we want to ensure a livable future for the
next generations.

This increasing awareness regarding eco-friendly living may also translate into increasing property prices
for houses that have been constructed in a green manner.

Thus, also if you plan to sell your home one day, green construction may also ensure you a higher resale
value in the future.

Tax advantages and subsidies

In many countries and regions, there are also plenty of tax benefits associated with green construction.

This may include certain one-time payments if you decide to build a house that has sufficient eco-
friendly features.

Therefore, you might get part of the building costs back from the government, which may increase your
incentive to go for a green home instead of a house that is constructed in a conventional manner.

Smart long-term investment

Even though the construction costs for green buildings are often higher compared to the costs of
conventional buildings, green buildings may still save you plenty of money in the long run.

Since you will have to spend less money on heating and water, chances are that the higher initial
construction costs will amortize over time.

Thus, if you consider investing in a green home, you should not only take into account the high initial
costs, but also the long-term benefits.
Compliance with stricter laws and regulations

In many countries, the regulations and laws regarding eco-friendly construction have become much
stricter over time.

Buildings have to meet minimum energy efficiency requirements before the construction of those
buildings is granted.

Thus, in order to assure that you meet all those requirements, going for green construction might be a
good idea.

Clean conscience

Apart from all the other benefits related to green construction, you will likely also have a clean
conscience by engaging in this eco-friendly building style since you know you made a big contribution to
ensure a livable future for the next generation.

This knowledge will also give you plenty of energy for several tasks of your daily life, which may further
improve your overall quality of life.

Disadvantages of Green Construction

High initial costs

Green construction is not a magic pill

Energy supply may depend on weather conditions

Unclear long-term effects

Technology problems

Maintenance may be difficult

Indoor air temperature may greatly vary over time

Some people might not like the design of green buildings

Experienced green construction workers may be rare

Green construction is not suitable for all locations

Availability issues of green construction materials

Funding problems for green buildings

High initial costs

Apart from the various advantages of green construction, there are also some problems with green
building.

For example, green construction often implies pretty high initial building costs which are usually higher
compared to conventional construction practices.

This may discourage people to invest in green construction.

However, there are also plenty of savings on energy and water in the long run and people should take all
those factors into account when it comes to the decision whether to invest in green buildings or not.

Green construction is not a magic pill

Although green building can improve your ecological footprint, it is no magic pill to solve all our
environmental problems.

There is still plenty of work required from your side to make your behavior as green as possible.

For instance, if you buy a green home but behave in a quite eco-unfriendly manner, your ecological
footprint might actually be worse compared to a person who lives in a conventional home but behaves
much eco-friendlier in his or her daily life.

Energy supply may depend on weather conditions

If your green home relies on green alternative energies like solar power, your energy supply might be
dependent on outside weather conditions.

For instance, if there is rain for a quite long period of time, chances are that you might run out of energy
sooner or later.
Thus, it might be a good idea to have a backup option so that green buildings can use conventional
energies as an emergency resource.

Unclear long-term effects

Since green construction is a relatively new technology, the long-term effects of this practice are still
relatively unclear.

For instance, we do not know if there are any negative effects 50 years from now related to those green
buildings.

This may result in significant levels of insecurity for people who currently decide whether they want to
build a green home or not.

Technology problems

Since the technology related to green construction is relatively new and not entirely mature yet, chances
are that there might be some technology issues sooner or later.

For instance, the energy supply may not work that good or the internet connection might be quite poor.

Thus, there might be plenty of technology issues that might have to be fixed over time, which may
translate into significant additional costs and efforts.

Maintenance may be difficult

Since green construction often uses the latest technologies, the maintenance of those devices might be
difficult since technology becomes increasingly complex and very few craftsmen keep their knowledge
up to date.
Thus, you depending on the area you live in, you might also have a pretty hard time finding a qualified
worker in case you need repairs or for other maintenance tasks.

Indoor air temperature may greatly vary over time

In many buildings that can be considered to be green, you might just have limited control over the inside
air temperature since it is often controlled from one central spot.

Therefore, you might suffer from too high or too low temperatures and your overall quality of life might
decrease due to this insufficient control over the indoor room temperature.

Some people might not like the design of green buildings

Since the design of green buildings is optimized to use the daylight as efficiently as possible, the shape of
those green buildings might be rather exotic.

This kind of construction style might not please everyone and many people may even refrain from
buying a green flat since they just do not like the design of those green buildings at all.

Therefore, depending on how important the design of a building is for you, you may also want to refrain
from investing in green construction projects due to the unusual shapes of those buildings.

Experienced green construction workers may be rare

It may also be rather difficult to find experienced green construction workers.

Most of the construction workers out there are quite experienced in the conventional construction of
buildings, but lack experience and knowledge when it comes to green buildings.

Thus, it might be quite hard for you to find a company that will construct you a green home and those
companies might also have a long waiting list.
Green construction is not suitable for all locations

Green building tries to use as much sunlight as possible in order to produce energy and to use the
daylight to further reduce the need of using conventional energy sources.

However, in regions that do not have many sunny days over the course of the year, those green
buildings may not be the way to go since the outside conditions may not be suitable for it.

Availability issues of green construction materials

Even though green construction has become quite popular over the past decade, it is still a relatively
new building technology and the infrastructure around green construction has not been optimized yet.

Therefore, it might also come to availability issues of green construction materials, especially if you live
in a region where green construction is still considered to be rather exotic and the infrastructure for
green building is missing.

Funding problems for green buildings

Banks may also be rather skeptic when it comes to the financing of green homes.

Many financial institutions still prefer to hand out loans for conventional buildings since they have much
more experience and knowledge in the valuation of those conventional homes.

Thus, it might be hard for you to get a loan for green construction projects since banks may put a rather
low valuation on your home in their books.

Ans 4. What is Rain Water Harvesting

Rainwater harvesting is the process of collecting and storage of rainwater for various purposes is called
rainwater harvesting. Rainwater is collected from a roof, surface, deep pit, or reservoir. It uses include
watering garden, irrigation, domestic uses with proper treatment and domestic heating. Rainwater
harvesting scheme its numerous individual, as well as community benefits, can be an effective tool in
developing a sustainable urban environment.
It saves time and money –

The best part of rainwater harvesting is that saves a lot of time as you don’t have to fetch time in order
to store water.

It maintains the ecological balance –

We can balance this wastage of water by utilizing rainwater to execute such a task.

It promotes optimal uses of water –

Rainwater harvesting is provided as an alternative source of water that promotes an optimal usage of
water. Humans tend to use tap water and purified water for the various purposes that one can carry out
with rainwater as well.

The importance of rainwater harvesting lies in the fact that it can be store for future use.

Rainwater Harvesting:- There 7 Types, Benefit and Uses

Rainwater Harvesting:- There 7 Types, Benefit and Uses

7 types of the rainwater harvesting system

Water butt

One of the most basic types of rainwater harvesting systems, water butt collects rainwater in a container
from natural rainfall and drain pipe. The collected pipe is used mainly for watering the garden.

Direct pumped

Most rainwater harvesting system needs pumps to transfer the collected rainwater from storage tanks
to the point of use. Submersible pumps are generally more efficient than suction pumps and do not
suffer from the same limitations.

Indirect pumped
This type of rainwater harvesting system doesn’t rely on gravity to supply water to the outlets. It pumps
the harvested water to a tank which can be at any level in the building. Furthermore, booster pumps to
adjust the flow and pressure requirements of the building.

Indirect gravity

This system ensures water is supplied to the outlets by the gravity alone for this harvested water is first
pumped to the header tank.

Gravity only

With such an arrangement, water can be collected only when collection tanks are located below the
level of gutter at higher than outlets which will be supplied. Here only power of gravity is needed.

Relations ponds

Relations ponds are used to collect surface runoff water and improve the quality of water by the natural
processess like sedimentation, decomposition, solar disinfection. This type of pond normally has a mud
bottom, but in some cases, it may be lined with concrete. It can also be used for groundwater recharge,
irrigation, or any other purpose other than potable uses.

In ground storage

Underground storage tanks are very popular in areas where the majority of rainfall occurs in the single
season. These underground tanks are insulated and have a very low rate of evaporation. In addition, the
water stored in these doesn’t freeze if it is buried below the frost line this is a huge advantage that
surface storage tanks do not offer. Underground tanks need to be connected to electric pumps to
ensure the supply of the stored water to the outlets.

The benefit of rainwater harvesting

Rainwater can be collected from most roof types depending on the quality of rainwater required.

For garden or low irrigation

Collect from any roof material except unsealed asbestos.

Ensure all gutter fall towards the outlets.

Preferably fit an effective leaf screen to the gutter.

For all other uses

Prevent vegetation from overhanging the roof.

Clean the roof and gutters before installing the system.

Fit a good quality leaf screen to gutters or use a leaf shedding gutter.

For drinking water

Form sections of roof containing lead flashing or asbestos sheeting, and from roof painted with pre-1980
paint. They cannot be avoided sead provably by preparing the surface and painting with a suitable
potable quality roof sealant and do not collect rainwater from the few rainfall events after sealing

Ans 5a. Neighborhood character

Neighborhood character is an amalgam of various elements that give neighborhoods their distinct
"personality.” These elements may include a neighborhood's land use, urban design, visual resources,
historic resources, socioeconomics, traffic, and/or noise.

Neighbourhood character refers to the 'look and feel of an area',[1] in particular a residential area. It
also includes the activities that occur there. In everyday usage, it can often be synonymous with local
character, residential character, urban character and place identity, but those terms can have more
specific meanings in connection with urban planning and conservation.

The neighbourhood character ascribed to an area can be both descriptive and prescriptive, and may or
may not form an explicit component of planning policy. However, planning policies inevitably impact
upon the way a place is used and what it feels like to be there, along with a range of other social,
cultural, ecological, physical and economic factors that shape human settlements. As interest in the
concept of place has increased since the 1970s, urban designers and planners have accordingly become
more focused on issues of character. The way that character is regulated varies from place to place, with
some planning systems making more overt references to it than others.

B. Sustainable and Green Building Materials That Can Be Used in Construction

1. Bamboo

2. Guadua Bamboo

Bamboo is considered one of the best eco-friendly building materials. It has an incredibly high self-
generation rate, with some being reported to have grown up to three feet within 24 hours. It continues
spreading and growing without having to be replanted after harvest. Bamboo is a perennial grass and
not wood and grows on every continent, except Europe and Antarctica.

It also has a high strength-to-weight ratio, even greater comprehensive strength than concrete and
brick, and lasts incredibly long. It is, therefore, the best choice for flooring and cabinetry. Unfortunately,
bamboo requires treatment to resist insects and rot. If left untreated, bamboo contains a starch that
greatly invites insects, and it could swell and crack after absorbing water.

2. Precast Concrete Slabs

3. Precast Concrete Slabs

The slabs are formed at a manufacturer’s site and are shipped in whole sections to construction sites.
Some are made entirely of concrete but have large hollow air spaces, like concrete blocks. Precast
concrete slabs are used for walls and building facades as they hold up well to all sorts of weather, while
others can be used for floor and flat roofs.

Concrete is an excellent way of controlling heat within a building and is affordable as a building material.
The sustainability of precast concrete slabs is higher than many traditional concrete options as the slabs
often take much less energy to produce and assemble. Precasting concrete also allows the material to
properly cure in a controlled environment, rather than exposing it to a variety of unfavorable weather
conditions while curing at a construction site. As such, precast concrete slabs avoid cracks and structural
faults within the concrete and eventual demolitions.

3. Cork

Just like bamboo, cork grows very quickly. It can also be harvested from a living tree, which continues to
grow and reproduce more cork, which is a tree bark. Cork is resilient, flexible and reverts to its original
shape even after enduring sustaining pressure. Its resilience and resistance to wear, makes it a common
element in floor tiles.

See also Causes, Effects and Brilliant Solutions to Growing Problem of Wildfires

It also excellently absorbs noise, making it perfect for insulation sheets, and due to its excellent shock
absorption qualities, it perfect for sub-flooring. It can also be a good thermal insulator as it is fire
resistant, especially if untreated, and does not release toxic gases when it burns. Cork, in being nearly
impermeable, does not absorb water or rot.

Unfortunately, it can only be sourced from the Mediterranean, making shipping it a bit costly.
Fortunately, it is extremely light and only requires less energy and emissions to ship.

4. Straw Bales

5. Straw Bales

It is another green building material that can be used as a framing material. They have good insulation
properties and can act as soundproof material. It can also be used as fill material in between columns
and in beams framework/ as they cannot allow air through, they can have some fire resistance
properties.

Straw can be harvested and re-planted easily with minimal environmental impacts. Making straw into
bales also has very low influence. They can also be placed in walls, attics and ceilings, to contribute to
cooler the house in the summer and warmer temperatures in the winter.

5. Recycled Plastic

6. small-plants-bottle-recycle

7. Source: Canva

8. Rather than sourcing, mining and milling new components for construction, manufacturers are using
recycled plastic and other ground-up trash to produce concrete. The practice is reducing greenhouse gas
emissions and is giving plastic waste new use, rather than clogging landfills and contributing to plastic
pollution.
A blend of recycled and virgin plastic is also used to make polymeric timbers, for use in making fences,
picnic tables and other structures, at the same time, saving trees. Plastic from two-liter bottles can be
spun into fiber for the production of carpets. Reused plastic can also design products such as cable
pipes, roofs, floors, PVC manholes, and PVC windows.

6. Reclaimed Wood

7. wooden-cabinets

Using reclaimed wood is one of the most environmentally responsible ways to save trees and reduce the
amount of lumber in landfills. Reclaimed wood can be found in retired barns, excavation companies,
home remodeling contractors and companies, salvage yards, and shipping crates and pallets.

Reclaimed wood is good for structural framing, cabinetry, and flooring. It is lightweight but has less
strength and each piece’s integrity should be assessed and chosen for an appropriate project. Also, most
wood is susceptible to insects and degradation, meaning it needs reinforcement and additional
treatment.

7. Reclaimed or Recycled Steel

8. recycled-steel

Steel can be used for the framing process, in place of wood, increasing the durability of a structure
against earthquakes and high winds. A 2,000-square foot house requires about 50 trees to build, but a
frame made from recycled steel requires the steel equivalent of just six scrapped cars.

Steel is 100% recyclable and significantly reduces the ecological impact of new construction. Mining,
heating and shaping products made from aluminum and steel requires a lot of energy, but properly and
efficiently reusing or recycling them into new products, lowers the energy used, and makes the material
more sustainable, the recycled metal is long-lasting and does not require frequent replacements.

See also The Oxygen Cycle

It does not burn or wrap and is therefore perfect for roofing, building facades and structural support.
Additionally, recycled steel is water- and pest-resistant.
8. Plant-based Polyurethane Rigid Foam

9. Polyurethane Rigid Foam

Rigid foam has for long been used as insulation material in building. It was first used after a top
manufacturer of surfboard material, was fined by the EPA, and subsequently put out of business, for
using a toxic material. The new surfboard material was made from plant-based polyurethane rigid foam,
which came from bamboo, kelp and hemp, rejuvenating the surfboard industry.

It is now in use in the manufacturing process including that of turbine blades and furniture. The material
is rigid and relatively immovable, meaning it can be used for insulation. Additionally, it offers protection
against mould and pests. It is also heat resistant, protects against mould and pests, and can be perfect
as sound insulation.

9. Sheep’s Wool

10. sheep wool

Sheep’s wool is a great alternative to chemical-laden insulation. It insulates the home just as well as
conventional insulation and requires less energy to manufacture. Sheep’s wool can increase energy
efficiency and soundproof your structure. It does not degrade nearly as quickly as other insulation
materials like straw and compared to some natural insulators such as cotton, sheep’s wool is more
prevalent, can be harvested more easily and regenerates quickly.

Unfortunately, it is not the most affordable insulator. It also has to be treated to ward off insects and
prevent the growth of fungi. Such treatment might make sheep’s wool less eco-friendly, depending on
the chemicals used.

10. Rammed Earth

11. Rammed Earth

It is a technology that has been used throughout human civilization for thousands of years and lasts a
very long time. It is a popular and affordable solution to creating steadfast foundations, floors and walls,
through natural materials such as chalk, earth, gravel or lime, and then compacting them.
When pressed tightly in wooden forms, it creates walls that have a similar feel to concrete. Buildings
made from rammed earth are made safer or fortified by the use of rebar or bamboo. Mechanical tamper
can greatly reduce the amount of labor required to create sturdy walls. Rammed earth walls and floors
can be used as thermal storage, allowing the sun to warm them in the day and slowly release the
warmth in the cooler evenings.

11. HempCrete

12. Hempcrete

13. Source: https://www.astm.org/

14. It is a concrete-like material created from the woody inner fibres of the hemp plant. The fibres are
bound with lime to create concrete-like shapes that are strong and light. Hemp concrete blocks are
lightweight, dramatically reducing the energy used to transport the blocks. Hempcrete is sturdy, has
good thermal and acoustic insulation qualities and is fire resistant. Additionally, its biggest sustainable
property is that it is CO2 negative, meaning it absorbs more CO2 than it emits. Hemp itself is a fast-
growing and renewable resource.

See also What is Organic Food and 15 Health Benefits of Eating Organic Food

12. Mycelium

13. Mycelium

It is a building material that is actually natural. Mycelium is a natural unicellular organism that comprises
the root structure of fungi and mushrooms. It could be encouraged to grow around a composite of other
natural materials, such as ground-up straw, in molds or forms. It is then air-dried to create lightweight
and strong bricks or other shapes.

Combined with pasteurized sawdust, mycelium could be formed into almost any shape, and be used as a
surprisingly sturdy building material. There is the potential for creating bricks and uniquely-shaped
building segments that are both strong and lightweight. The mushroom-based building material can
withstand extreme temperatures, making it an organic and compostable alternative to home insulation,
Styrofoam and even concrete.

13. Ferrock

It is a relatively new material and it uses recycled materials such as steel dust from the steel industry, or
ferrous rock leftover from industrial processes, usually sent to the landfill. It creates a concrete-like
building material, stronger than the concrete itself. It traps and absorbs carbon dioxide as part of its
drying and hardening process.

This makes ferrock carbon neutral and a lot less CO2 intensive as compared to traditional concrete. It is
a viable alternative to cement and can be mixed and poured to form driveways, staircases, pathways,
and more structures. Some researchers believe ferrock is more resilient to weather than concrete.

14. Timbercrete

This is an interesting building material and is made from a mix of sawdust and concrete. It is lighter than
concrete and reduces transportation emissions. The sawdust also reuses a waste product and replaces
some of the energy-intensive components of traditional concrete. Timber concrete could also be formed
into traditional shapes like pavers, bricks and blocks.

15. Terrazzo

This is a mosaic style of flooring where small pieces of marble or granite are set in polished concrete or
epoxy resin. When well maintained, terrazzo floors can last up to 40 years without losing their brilliance.
The original terrazzo was set in cement and was modeled after 20th-century Italian work.

Today, 90% of terrazzo floors are made with an epoxy resin. A company like Terrazzo & Marble Supply
company manufactures ‘forever floors’ from their own epoxy, which incorporates materials like brass,
aluminum and zinc, along with recycled glass, beer bottles, marbles and porcelain.

A terrazzo floor might be more expensive than carpets, but you will have to replace carpets. Terrazzo
floor, on the other hand, can last for over four decades, making it a sustainable building material.
Additionally, before pouring terrazzo into place, you can use the color of your choice and make the floor
of your choosing. It makes for easy-to-clean floors, which can also be installed in high-traffic areas like
schools, airports, and stadiums.

C. Whilst cold flat roofs were the most commonly used method of insulation, changes in the way we live
– increased time spent inside, an increase in internal washing and cooking areas – meant that the
additional water vapour needed to be addressed. This is why warm flat roof designs are commonly
regarded as the preferred, and more effective, design. In this article we discuss the pros and cons of
both roof designs.

WARM FLAT ROOF DESIGNS

warm roof design

Notes: It is most important to note the vapour barrier must be a continuous vapour barrier with no
puncture points. It is also worth noting if down lighters are to be considered in any way, the correct
insulated type are used and the vapour barrier must be re-sealed to accommodate for a complete seal.

The main principle for a warm roof design is that the insulating layer is located above the timber rafters,
or above and between the structural supports, resulting in the roof and loft area being at a similar
temperature to the interior of the building.

Warm roof designs will make the entire structure of the building warm in order to avoid cold bridging –
an element of the building that allows heat or energy loss.

Pros:

The simplicity of a warm flat roof makes it one of the most popular designs, providing an effective and
easy way of insulating a building

Warm flat roofs make it easier to eliminate cold bridging

Allows heat to be conserved with no requirement for roof void ventilation

Allows moisture to escape which prevents damp and decay

Thermally efficient

Cost effective

Best roof option for the UK climate

Cons

Scaffolding may be required

Can be slightly more difficult to install than a cold roof design

COLD FLAT ROOF DESIGNS

cold flat roofs

The alternative roofing insulation design places the insulation layer between, or under the timber rafters
– level with the ceiling joist. This therefore leaves the roof and timbers cold, requiring a breathable
membrane between the insulation and roof structure.

The requirement for roof void ventilation in cold roofing designs means it is generally not recommended
as a design for new build flat roofs.

Pros

A cold roof is an easy option when creating a flat roof, simply placing insulating between the rafters

Low impact

Cost effective

Cons

Cold roofing designs can be extremely tricky for existing flat roofs

The design requires an adequate ventilation system to be provided in order to prevent vapour causing
damp in between the insulation and structure

Warm roof

On flat roofs, a 'warm roof' is one in which the insulation layer is laid on top of roof structure. This
results in the structural deck and its supports being at a temperature closer to that of the building’s
interior. This is as opposed to a 'cold roof' in which the insulation is below, or within the roof structure,
and so the roof structure is closer to the outside temperature.

Ans 6. The official definition of sustainable building design is ever-changing, but the National Institute of
Building Science defines the six fundamental principles of sustainable building construction as:

1. Optimise Site Potential

2. sustainable design and construction

3. Site selection is the first and primary principle. To successfully execute a green construction project,
the correct site must be chosen and then integrated with sustainable design, regardless of whether
you’re designing a new building or retrofitting an existing one. The location is of great importance, as
well as the site orientation and landscaping. These will all play a role in how local ecosystems are
impacted by the build. Transportation methods and associated energy use will also be affected by site
location.

2. Optimise Energy Use

3. In order to increase energy independence, the energy performance of existing buildings must be
increased. This is due to the fact that most newly constructed buildings currently operate under the net-
zero rule, which is a fantastic way to minimise the dependence on fossil fuels that communities have
developed. EE Windows provide a range of uPVC window frames and double glazed glass that offer
excellent insulation capabilities, making them are essential for energy efficiency. uPVC door frames are
also the ideal choice for home builds due to their sealing capabilities and their effect on the blower door
test results.

3. Conserving Water

4. sustainable design and construction | water conservation

5. A sustainable building must conserve water. Net-zero buildings will use water efficiently, and
reuse/recycle water where possible, but only when appropriate.

4. Optimising Building Space and Material Use

5. Natural resources are not infinite. As the population continues to grow, more and more buildings
must be constructed with sustainability in mind. It’s not only important to reduce the amount of waste
generated by buildings, but also to pursue methods of reusing materials, to ensure the world continues
to grow and prosper. Sustainable buildings are designed to be productive and sustainable across their
entire life cycle.

5. Enhancing Indoor Environmental Qualities (IEQ)

6. In order to ensure building occupants live comfortably and work productively (if it is a commercial
building), the IEQ of a building must be considered. Sustainable buildings will maximise the amount of
natural light, which not only saves on power costs but also increases the positive psychological effects of
sunlight. These buildings will also have appropriate ventilation as well as moisture control, and they will
be inherently designed to optimise acoustics and steer clear of materials that have a high-VOC emission
output.

6. Optimised Operational and Maintenance practices

7. Designers are able to specify materials and systems that streamline and simplify maintenance
requirements. These may include but aren’t limited to: less water, energy, toxic chemicals and cleaning
products. These optimised operational and maintenance practices are not only much more cost-
effective, they also reduce costs throughout the asset lifecycle.

EE Windows is in the business of promoting sustainable building practices wherever possible. We are
committed to lowering emissions and saving money in the process. Check out our range of energy
efficient windows and doors here. Need a quote? Call us on 1300 765 536 or send us an enquiry via our
online contact page.
Six Basic Principles of Sustainable Commercial Construction Projects

1. Site potential optimization

2. It involves choosing the right site for the new building, taking into account the location, the landscape,
the orientation, the possibility to reuse existing buildings, and minimizing or eliminating negative impact
on the local ecosystems, transportation infrastructure, and energy systems.

2. Energy use optimization

3. It focuses on finding ways to limit energy load, improve energy efficiency, and promote renewable
energy sources. It materializes in energy efficient buildings that do not depend on fossil fuels.

3. Water protection and conservation

4. As fresh water resources in the U.S. are dropping, it is important for new commercial buildings to use
water efficiently. This can be achieved by using installations that minimize consumption and recycle
water.

4. Building space and material use optimization

5. Sustainable design aims towards intelligent, responsible, and integrated use of materials, meant to
conserve resources and prevent pollution.

5. Indoor environment quality enhancement

6. Since the quality of the indoor environment impacts occupant comfort, health, and productivity,
commercial buildings should offer natural light, proper ventilation, moisture control, optimized acoustic
performance, light and temperature control, all while avoiding high-VOC emission materials.

6. Operational and maintenance practice optimization

7. Sustainable design considers the commercial building’s operation and maintenance, aiming to ensure
an improved work environment, high productivity, low resource and energy costs, all while preventing
system failures.

Ans 8. Greywater (or grey water, sullage, also spelled gray water in the United States) refers to domestic
wastewater generated in households or office buildings from streams without fecal contamination, i.e.,
all streams except for the wastewater from toilets. Sources of greywater include sinks, showers, baths,
washing machines or dishwashers. As greywater contains fewer pathogens than domestic wastewater, it
is generally safer to handle and easier to treat and reuse onsite for toilet flushing, landscape or crop
irrigation, and other non-potable uses. Greywater may still have some pathogen content from
laundering soiled clothing or cleaning the anal area in the shower or bath.
Left: greywater sample from an office building. Right: Same greywater after treatment in membrane
bioreactor

The application of greywater reuse in urban water systems provides substantial benefits for both the
water supply subsystem, by reducing the demand for fresh clean water, and the wastewater subsystems
by reducing the amount of wastewater required to be conveyed and treated.[1] Treated greywater has
many uses, such as toilet flushing or irrigation.[2]

When greywater is mixed with toilet wastewater, it is called sewage or black water and should be
treated in sewage treatment plants or an onsite sewage facility, which is often a septic system.

Greywater from kitchen sinks contains fats, oils and grease, and high loads of organic matter. It should
undergo preliminary treatment to remove these substances before discharge into a greywater tank. If
this is difficult to apply, it could be directed to the sewage system or to an existing sewer.[7]

Most greywater is easier to treat and recycle than sewage because of lower levels of contaminants. If
collected using a separate plumbing system from black water, domestic greywater can be recycled
directly within the home, garden or company and used either immediately or processed and stored. If
stored, it must be used within a very short time or it will begin to putrefy due to the organic solids in the
water. Recycled greywater of this kind is never safe to drink, but a number of treatment steps can be
used to provide water for washing or flushing toilets.

The treatment processes that can be used are in principle the same as those used for sewage treatment,
except that they are usually installed on a smaller scale (decentralized level), often at household or
building level:

Biological systems such as constructed wetlands or living walls and more natural 'backyard' small scale
systems, such as small ponds or biodiverse landscapes that naturally purify greywater.[8]

Bioreactors or more compact systems such as membrane bioreactors which are a variation of the
activated sludge process and is also used to treat sewage.

Mechanical systems (sand filtration, lava filter systems and systems based on UV radiation)
Ans 12. Sick Building Syndrome

The term "sick building syndrome" (SBS) is used to describe situations in which building occupants
experience acute health and comfort effects that appear to be linked to time spent in a building, but no
specific illness or cause can be identified.

What are the symptoms of sick building syndrome?

SBS symptoms can affect your skin, respiratory, and neurological systems. You may mistakenly self-
diagnose yourself with a cold or flu.

Among the possible symptoms are:

throat irritation

breathing difficulties

tightness in the chest

runny nose

allergy-like symptoms, such as sneezing

burning sensations in the nose

dry, itchy skin rashes

headaches

dizziness

difficulty concentrating

forgetfulness

fatigue

irritability

nausea

body aches

fever

chills
If you have allergies or a current respiratory illness, you may notice an increased severity in your
symptoms. For example, people with asthma might be at a higher risk for asthma attacks due to SBS.

It’s also important to note that SBS affects everyone differently. While everyone who spends time in a
particular space might go through some of the above symptoms, these can vary. Some people may not
experience any symptoms at all. Others may experience symptoms after leaving the building in question
— this may be due to repeated or long-term exposure.

What causes sick building syndrome?

The term “sick building syndrome” is used when the exact cause of your symptoms can’t be identified.
However, there are a variety of possible causes you can ask your doctor about.

The culprits behind SBS may include:

buildings with poor ventilation, such as schools, offices, and public spaces

high levels of dust

tobacco smoke

rooms with poor lighting

outdated computer displays that cause eye strain

the presence of mold or fungus

formaldehyde (mostly found in wood furniture and floors)

asbestos

chemicals in the air from cleaning products

pesticides

carbon monoxide

ozone from the use of printers and fax machines

high levels of stress at school or work

low workplace morale

heat or low humidity

noisy work environments

insect or animal droppings

Given the variety of factors that can cause SBS, it’s difficult to pinpoint one single cause. You might be
able to work with your employer to eliminate possible risk factors. This way, you can get to the source of
the problem.

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How is sick building syndrome diagnosed?

Diagnosing SBS involves a process of elimination. Your doctor will rule out other conditions that could
mimic sick building symptoms, such as a cold, asthma, or allergies. They will also ask you about your
work and home environment.

You may consider keeping a journal to record your symptoms. Write down when and where they start,
as well as when they go away. Also, be as specific about your symptoms as you can.

How is sick building syndrome treated?

SBS is primarily treated by alleviating symptoms while reducing your exposure to the causes of these
symptoms.

Allergy medications can help alleviate itchy eyes, nose, and skin. Over-the-counter options, such as
Benadryl and Zyrtec, are widely available. Asthma medications may be needed for wheezing and other
breathing difficulties. These may include long-term medications, such as leukotriene modifiers or an
inhaler for acute symptoms.
Some steps to treat SBS can also be taken by employers. You or your boss may consider the following:

Use cleaning products with low fumes and no fragrances.

Vacuum regularly to remove dust.

Change out air filters every couple of months (or more, if necessary).

Find the right humidity — NHS Choices recommends an optimal humidity level of 40 to 70 percent.

Get a test for possible indoor mold or fungus.

Update computer monitors and other display systems.

Change lights as needed.

Consider investing in LED or blue lights for less energy output.

What is the outlook for sick building syndrome?

The symptoms of sick building syndrome most often get better once you leave the hazardous building in
question. Persistent symptoms improve once you’ve either eliminated your exposure, or when hazards
inside the building are removed. In some cases, long-term exposure to poor indoor air quality can lead
to lung diseases, such as asthma.

Can sick building syndrome be prevented?

Unfortunately, you may not be able to tell if an indoor space has poor air quality factors that can make
you feel sick. Still, you may be able to take preventive measures to reduce your risk of SBS.

You can help decrease your own risk factors for sick building syndrome by:

taking regular breaks outside of the building by eating lunch outdoors, for example

opening your windows to get some fresh air, if possible (you may want to avoid this during high levels of
outdoor pollen, though)

giving your eyes a break by looking away from your computer

standing at your desk or walking around your office

using caution with any indoor chemicals, such as bleach and insecticides

Sick building syndrome (SBS) is a condition in which people in a building suffer from symptoms of illness
or become infected with chronic disease from the building in which they work or reside.[1] The
outbreaks may or may not be a direct result of inadequate cleaning or inappropriate cleaning methods.
[2] SBS has also been used to describe staff concerns in post-war brutalist-style buildings with
misplanned building aerodynamics, defects in the construction materials or assembly process and-or
inadequate maintenance.[2] Certain symptoms tend to increase in severity with the time people spend
in the building; often improving over time or even disappearing when people are away from the
building.[2] Exposure to toxic black mold might be a problem.[3] SBS is also used interchangeably with
"building-related symptoms", which orients the name of the condition around patients symptoms rather
than a "sick" building

INTRODUCTION

The sick building syndrome (SBS) is used to describe a situation in which the occupants of a building
experience acute health- or comfort-related effects that seem to be linked directly to the time spent in
the building. No specific illness or cause can be identified. The complainants may be localized in a
particular room or zone or may be widespread throughout the building.[1]

CLASSIFICATION

The health conditions associated with buildings are commonly classified as:

SBS or Tight building syndrome.

Building-related disease, when the symptoms of diagnosable illness are identified and attributed directly
to airborne building contaminants.

Building-associated symptoms.[2]

Signs and symptoms of the sick building syndrome are as follows[3]

Headache, dizziness, nausea, eye, nose or throat irritation, dry cough, dry or itching skin, difficulty in
concentration, fatigue, sensitivity to odours, hoarseness of voice, allergies, cold, flu-like symptoms,
increased incidence of asthma attacks and personality changes.

The cause of the symptoms is not known. It reduces work efficiency and increases absenteeism. Most of
the complainants report relief soon after leaving the building, although lingering effects of neurotoxins
can occur.

Unit 2

Ans 3. Evaluation Criteria for Green Materials

Due to phenomenal growth in the construction industry, there is tremendous pressure on depletable
earth resources such as soil, sand, stones, wood, etc. Production of building materials leads to
irreversible environmental impacts. Using environment–friendly building materials is the best way to
build an eco-friendly building. Following criteria can be used to identify the green materials.

Local availability of materials

Embodied energy of materials

% of recycled/waste materials used

Rapidly renewable materials

Contribution in Energy Efficiency of buildings

Recyclability of materials

Durability

Environmental Impact

Using above mentioned criteria and assigning certain rating (R1-R8) to each of the criteria, overall
evaluation of the material can be made by summation of score obtained by any material in these
ratings. Guidelines for assigning rating to each criteria is discussed in following text.

i) Local availability of materials

Evaluation Criteria for Green MaterialsAs far as possible locally available materials are to be preferred so
as to minimize the energy spent in transportation of the building materials. Energy consumed in
transportation should be considered as total energy spent on transporting materials starting from the
place of manufacturing. Depending upon distance from the place of manufacturing of the material,
points for rating R1 can be allotted to the materials, based on following guidelines.

ii) Embodied energy of materials

Evaluation Criteria for Green MaterialsEmbodied energy is an assessment of the energy required to
manufacture any building material. This include energy required to extract raw materials from nature,
energy used to transport raw materials to manufacturing unit and the energy used in manufacturing
activities to provide a finished product. Every building is a complex combination of many processed
materials, each of which contributes to the building’s total embodied energy. Embodied energy is a
reasonable indicator of the overall environmental impact of building materials, assemblies or systems.
Embodied energy of some building materials is mentioned in Table-2. Depending upon embodied energy
of the materials, points for rating R2 can be allotted based on guidelines given in Table-3.

(iii) Percentage of recycled/waste materials used

Evaluation Criteria for Green MaterialsBuilding materials can be manufactured using recycled materials
or using waste materials. Use of recycled materials helps the environment and the economy in several
ways. A significant effect is that of lessening the need for manufacture with virgin, non-renewable
resources, which saves precious resources, energy and cost. Waste materials that would have ended in
landfills after its useful life, instead can be reprocessed for use in other products. Use of various type
waste materials such as fly ash, blast furnace slag, red mud, waste glass, marble dust, cinder, rice husk,
coconut husk, banana leaves, jute fibers, rubber from automobile tires, etc. is demonstrated by
research. Table-4 specifies guidelines for rating R3 for this criterion.

(iv) Use of renewable resources

Materials manufactured with resources that are renewable (i.e. wood or solar power) rather than non-
renewable (i.e. fossil fuels) shall be preferred. Depletion of the earth’s resources is occurring at an
alarming rate. Entire ecosystem is affected due to continuous extraction of raw materials from the
earth. As stock of fossil fuel is limited, it may get exhausted very soon. By utilizing renewable energies,
such as wind, solar, tidal, as well as renewable materials, such as wood (certain certified species which
are rapidly renewable), grasses or sand, impact on biodiversity and ecosystems can be lessen.

(v) Contribution in Energy Efficiency of buildings

Construction and operation of buildings utilizing major portion of total energy produced. With little
careful efforts, designers and builders can reduce energy loads on structures, reducing energy
requirements and the strain on natural resources. With proper orientation of building with reference to
solar radiation to receive maximum day lighting, operable windows for natural cross-ventilation, use of
passive cooling techniques, (eliminating or lessening the need for air conditioning), walling unit with
lower U values, roof insulation, water-saving devices and more efficient appliances can all work to lessen
energy needs. Consideration of alternate energy source use, such as wind, solar and tidal power, can
help alleviate reliance on traditional fossil fuel sources. Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) has been set
up by Govt. of India, who has formulated Energy Conservation Building Code (ECBC), Evaluation Criteria
for Green Materialswhich is defining certain minimum energy performance standard for buildings. ECBC
specifies minimum values for U-factor (U-factor is thermal transmittance which is the rate of transfer of
heat through unit area of a structure for unit difference in temperature across the structure., unit is
W/m2-0C), Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC - the ratio of the solar heat gain entering the space
through the fenestration area to the incident solar radiation. Solar heat gain includes directly
transmitted solar heat and absorbed solar radiation, which is then reradiated, conducted, or convected
into the space) and Visual Transmittance (VT – it indicates percentage of visible portion of solar
spectrum that is transmitted though a given glass) with guidelines to be Table 6 specifies guidelines for
rating R5 for this criterion.

(vi) Recyclability of materials

Evaluation Criteria for Green MaterialsThe recyclability of the materials can be judged from quantity of
materials recovered for re-use after the useful life of materials/products or after demolition of the
building. Table - 7 specifies guidelines for rating R6 for this criterion.

(vii) Durability

Materials which are long lasting and needing little maintenance are preferred. Material replacement
puts a strain on the earth, its resources and inhabitants. In making materials more durable and easy to
maintain, manufacturers can help in eliminating a costly, damaging and time-consuming process of
replacement. Rating R7 for this criterion can be considered as mentioned in Table-8.

(viii) Environmental Impact

Evaluation Criteria for Green MaterialsAll materials used for construction of buildings must not harm the
environment, pollute air or water, or cause damage to the earth, its inhabitants and its ecosystems
during manufacturing process, and also during use or disposal after end of life. Material should be non-
toxic and contribute to good indoor air quality. Worldwide industrial production uses billions of tons of
raw materials every year. Pollution caused in excavation, manufacturing, use or disposal of a product
can have far reaching consequences on the Earth’s ecosystem. Poor indoor air quality caused by VOC
emission costs billions in medical bills and lost productivity to companies every year. The manufacturing,
use, and disposal of PVC pose substantial and unique environmental and human health hazards because
of its uniquely wide and potent range of chemical emissions throughout its life cycle. It is virtually the
only material that requires phthalate plasticizers, frequently includes heavy metals and emits large
numbers of VOCs. In addition, during manufacture it is responsible for the production of a large number
of highly toxic chemicals including dioxins (the most potent carcinogens measured by man), vinyl
chloride, ethylene dichloride, etc. When burned at the end of life, whether in an incinerator, structural
fire or landfill fire, it releases hydrochloric acid and more dioxins. Products made with PVC may be
avoided as far as possible

Overall material/product selection criteria:

Resource efficiency

Indoor air quality

Energy efficiency

Water conservation

Affordability

Resource Efficiency can be accomplished by utilizing materials that meet the following criteria:

Recycled Content: Products with identifiable recycled content, including postindustrial content with a
preference for postconsumer content.
Natural, plentiful or renewable: Materials harvested from sustainably managed sources and preferably
have an independent certification (e.g., certified wood) and are certified by an independent third party.

Resource efficient manufacturing process: Products manufactured with resource-efficient processes

including reducing energy consumption, minimizing waste (recycled, recyclable and or source reduced
product packaging), and reducing greenhouse gases.

Locally available: Building materials, components, and systems found locally or regionally saving energy
and resources in transportation to the project site.

Salvaged, refurbished, or remanufactured: Includes saving a material from disposal and renovating,
repairing, restoring, or generally improving the appearance, performance, quality, functionality, or value
of a product.

Reusable or recyclable: Select materials that can be easily dismantled and reused or recycled at the end
of their useful life.

Recycled or recyclable product packaging: Products enclosed in recycled content or recyclable

packaging.

Durable: Materials that are longer lasting or are comparable to conventional products with long life
expectancies.

Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) is enhanced by utilizing materials that meet the following criteria:

Low or non-toxic: Materials that emit few or no carcinogens, reproductive toxicants, or irritants as
demonstrated by the manufacturer through appropriate testing.

Minimal chemical emissions: Products that have minimal emissions of Volatile Organic Compounds
(VOCs). Products that also maximize resource and energy efficiency while reducing chemical emissions.

Low-VOC assembly: Materials installed with minimal VOC-producing compounds, or no-VOC mechanical
attachment methods and minimal hazards.

Moisture resistant: Products and systems that resist moisture or inhibit the growth of biological
contaminants in buildings.

Healthfully maintained: Materials, components, and systems that require only simple, non-toxic, or low-
VOC methods of cleaning.

Systems or equipment: Products that promote healthy IAQ by identifying indoor air pollutants or
enhancing the air quality.

Energy Efficiency can be maximized by utilizing materials and systems that meet the following criteria:
Materials, components, and systems that help reduce energy consumption in buildings and facilities.
(See Green Building Basics for more information.)

Water Conservation can be obtained by utilizing materials and systems that meet the following criteria:

Products and systems that help reduce water consumption in buildings and conserve water in
landscaped areas. (See Green Building Basics for more information.)

Affordability can be considered when building product life-cycle costs are comparable to conventional
materials or as a whole, are within a project-defined percentage of the overall budget. (See
Environmental and Economic Assessment Tools for links to resources.)

Ans 4. The greener and smarter replacements

During the stage of construction of a building, to make it green, can substitute natural sand with finely
powdered crystalline silica made from rejected limestone. It supports in replacing natural sand usage in
concrete and plastics.

Using this substitute also aides in preserving natural reserves and protecting the environment.
Moreover, silica also safeguards the denser concrete, making the structure more strong and durable.

Replace clay bricks with a much sustainable, technically superior, fly ash based composition. In terms of
strength, water absorption, efflorescence and various other constraints, these are superior in quality
than any other bricks available in the market. Besides the quality factor, fly ash-based bricks are energy
and resource efficient bricks. These bricks are produced using cleaner production methods and cut
carbon footprints.

Another component is concrete. The usefulness of which is yet to be explored well. It can be customised
to serve several purposes. Here are some ways to use concrete: Weather-proof house A combination of
concrete and cement to an advanced level with cement materials without changing any other important
properties has a higher strength and durability when compared to Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC)
against external weathering loses. This superior composition upsurges the concrete's resistance to
sulphates, reduces chloride-ion penetration, and improves resistance to belligerent situations. Beautify
It is not always necessary for concrete to be dull. It can be printed or stamped for making attractive
surfaces on entrance, flooring, footpath and pavements. Whether, the driveway to a garage or a
poolside private access path, this creation can help add a new colour to an ordinary surrounding.
Intricate patterns for a decorative patio or a naturally blending pathway in a garden. This product is not
only strong and impact resistant, but also weather-proof, making it easy and economical to preserve.
Self-drain water (i) It allows drainage of water, the large pores present in the no-fines concrete allow
easy drainage in to ground under appropriate conditions; (ii) it helps keep the area dry and clean and
prevents polluted water from entering our streams; and (iii) it allows more efficient land developments,
by making it possible for integrated land utilisation for water preservation and drainage. Cut electricity
bills Concrete is designed to provide thermal comfort in the buildings, restricting heat or cold directly
entering inside the building, a layer of modified concrete can be applied over the top layer of the roof
slab. This will keep the building cool in summer and warm in winters. The trapped insulation in the
concrete layer provides a bed for energy control in the cement. Due to this mechanism, energy
consumption is reduced to a great amount. In addition, it helps saving the non-renewable resources,
durability and the benefits lasts for an extensive time.

Ans 6,7a. In urban planning, architecture and civil engineering, the term built environment, or built
world, refers to the human-made environment that provides the setting for human activity, including
homes, buildings, zoning, streets, sidewalks, open spaces, transportation options, and more.[1] It is
defined as "the human-made space in which people live, work and recreate on a day-to-day basis."[2]

Part of the built environment: suburban tract housing in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

The built environment is relevant in the fields of architecture, urban planning, public health, sociology,
and anthropology, among others.[3][4][5][6][7] It impacts how society physically maneuvers and
functions, as well as less tangible aspects of society such as racial inequity. The topic of built
environment also includes the ways in which communities have approached environmental issues that
have arisen as a result of such altering of the environment for human activities amongst those of plants
and animals.[8]

The built environment is made up of physical features. However, when studied, the built environment
often highlights the connection between physical space and social consequences.[6] Various aspects of
the built environment contribute to scholarship on housing and segregation, physical activity, food
access, climate change, and environmental racism.

Ans 7c, 11. What Does Leadership In Energy And Environmental Design (LEED) Mean?

Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) is a set of rating systems for evaluating the
design and environmental performance of buildings, homes and neighborhoods. Devised by the United
States Green Building Council, the system provides specifications to projects for environmentally
friendly actions both during the construction and use of the building. LEED was started to appreciate,
drive and accelerate green building practices.

Techopedia Explains Leadership In Energy And Environmental Design (LEED)

Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design is a voluntary program and provides a framework for
green buildings that can identify and implement measurable design, construction, maintenance and
operations solutions. One salient feature of LEED is its possible adaptation by different building types. It
measures nine key areas:

Regional priority

Sustainable sites

Innovations in design

Materials & resources

Energy & atmosphere

Water efficiency

Indoor environmental quality

Awareness & education

Locations & linkages

The credit-based system sets identical criteria for every project to qualify and highly encourages
sustainable design. It causes the building operators and owners to be more environmentally responsible
and also use the resources more efficiently. LEED provides certification to quality building projects which
satisfy the requirements. The certifications provided by LEED are categorized as Certified, Silver, Gold
and Platinum, with more points awarded to higher energy efficiency.

There are many benefits of obtaining LEED certification in projects. Firstly, it projects a positive image of
the project to the community. Green building practices can help in significant cost and energy savings. It
promotes clean and renewable energy. The indoor air quality and daylight provides better quality of life
to those in the buildings. Indirectly, this helps in increasing the productivity of the people in the building,
home or neighborhood. Many cities and states are providing tax benefits for green buildings and some
U.S. government agencies are also adopting LEED or similar standards, with some ranking the minimum
qualification as equivalent to LEED Silver certification.
Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) is a green building certification program used
worldwide.[9] Developed by the non-profit U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), it includes a set of
rating systems for the design, construction, operation, and maintenance of green buildings, homes, and
neighborhoods, which aims to help building owners and operators be environmentally responsible and
use resources efficiently. By 2015, there were over 80,000 LEED-certified buildings and over 100,000
LEED-accredited professionals. Most LEED-certified buildings are located in major U.S. metropolises.
LEED Canada has developed a separate rating system for the regulations and climate of that country.

LEED 2009 encompasses ten rating systems for the design, construction and operation of buildings,
homes and neighborhoods. Five overarching categories correspond to the specialties available under the
LEED professional program. That suite consists of:[17]

Green building design and construction (BD+C) – for new construction, core and shell,[a] schools, retail
spaces (new constructions and major renovations), and healthcare facilities

Green interior design and construction – for commercial and retail interiors

Green building operations and maintenance

Green neighborhood development

Green home design and construction[b]

LEED also forms the basis for other sustainability rating systems such as the U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency's (EPA) Labs21.

Buildings can qualify for four levels of certification:

Certified: 40–49 points

Silver: 50–59 points

Gold: 60–79 points

Ans 7d. A greenhouse gas (GHG or GhG) is a gas that absorbs and emits radiant energy within the
thermal infrared range, causing the greenhouse effect.[1] The primary greenhouse gases in Earth's
atmosphere are water vapor (H
2O), carbon dioxide (CO

2), methane (CH

4), nitrous oxide (N

2O), and ozone (O3). Without greenhouse gases, the average temperature of Earth's surface would be
about −18 °C (0 °F),[2] rather than the present average of 15 °C (59 °F).[3][4][5] The atmospheres of
Venus, Mars and Titan also contain greenhouse gases.

Greenhouse gases are those that absorb and emit infrared radiation in the wavelength range emitted by
Earth.[1] Carbon dioxide (0.04%), nitrous oxide, methane, and ozone are trace gases that account for
almost 0.1% of Earth's atmosphere and have an appreciable greenhouse effect.

The most abundant greenhouse gases in Earth's atmosphere, listed in decreasing order of average global
mole fraction, are:[13][14]

Water vapor (H

2O)

Carbon dioxide (CO

2)

Methane (CH

4)

Nitrous oxide (N

2O)

Ozone (O

3)

Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs and HCFCs)

Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs)

Perfluorocarbons (CF
4, C

2F

6, etc.), SF

6, and NF

Atmospheric concentrations are determined by the balance between sources (emissions of the gas from
human activities and natural systems) and sinks (the removal of the gas from the atmosphere by
conversion to a different chemical compound or absorption by bodies of water).[15] The proportion of
an emission remaining in the atmosphere after a specified time is the "airborne fraction" (AF). The
annual airborne fraction is the ratio of the atmospheric increase in a given year to that year's total
emissions. As of 2006 the annual airborne fraction for CO

2 was about 0.45. The annual airborne fraction increased at a rate of 0.25 ± 0.21% per year over the
period 1959–2006.[16]

Gases that trap heat in the atmosphere are called greenhouse gases. This section provides information
on emissions and removals of the main greenhouse gases to and from the atmosphere. For more
information on the other climate forcers, such as black carbon, please visit the Climate Change
Indicators: Climate Forcing page.

Carbon dioxide (CO2): Carbon dioxide enters the atmosphere through burning fossil fuels (coal, natural
gas, and oil), solid waste, trees and other biological materials, and also as a result of certain chemical
reactions (e.g., manufacture of cement). Carbon dioxide is removed from the atmosphere (or
"sequestered") when it is absorbed by plants as part of the biological carbon cycle.

Methane (CH4): Methane is emitted during the production and transport of coal, natural gas, and oil.
Methane emissions also result from livestock and other agricultural practices, land use and by the decay
of organic waste in municipal solid waste landfills.

Nitrous oxide (N2O): Nitrous oxide is emitted during agricultural, land use, industrial activities,
combustion of fossil fuels and solid waste, as well as during treatment of wastewater.

Fluorinated gases: Hydrofluorocarbons, perfluorocarbons, sulfur hexafluoride, and nitrogen trifluoride

are synthetic, powerful greenhouse gases that are emitted from a variety of industrial processes.
Fluorinated gases are sometimes used as substitutes for stratospheric ozone-depleting substances (e.g.,
chlorofluorocarbons, hydrochlorofluorocarbons, and halons). These gases are typically emitted in
smaller quantities, but because they are potent greenhouse gases, they are sometimes referred to as
High Global Warming Potential gases ("High GWP gases").